Hegel H120 or H190


Hello!

I’m considering getting an Hegel integrated amplifier. I like their sound, they are in my budget range and they feature the functions I will use. Because of my budget, I’m considering a H120 or a H190, used or new. H390 and H400 are out of my budget I think.

After several tests, I would say the H190 sounds slightly better (wider soundstage, more precision) but it’s not day and night though so I am still wondering what to do because it is also much more expensive, whether used or new.

I’d like to know your thoughts about that, if any of you had the two and used them over the course of several weeks or months.

Speakers are B&W CM1 (bookshelf); I’ll probably upgrade them within 2 or 3 years. I rarely listen to my music above 80 db and the room is about 17 square meters.

Thank you very much for your ideas!

boozendormi

Showing 1 response by mm1tt77

The advice on figuring out your potential speaker upgrade, what your preferences are and picking a new amp based on how it meets the potential new speakers needs along with synergy is key.  How an amp sounds paired with speakers is heavily impacted by the synergy between the two.  Even if you aren’t streaming currently, might be a good idea to buy an amp that offers the capability, opens up an entirely new world of accessibility.  Hegel is highly regarded and specifically for their integrated units, you won’t go wrong with them.  They also should be able to drive most speakers.  I’d lean into the 190 or 360 used, Hegel has a great reputation for their integrated amps digital streaming / DAC capabilities, you’ll get a slightly better amp / pre and gain the all in one package needed to stream should you ever get the itch.  Bang for buck, Music Fidelity makes some great integrated amps, used some models should fall within your price range, same with Peach Tree Audio.  I think PS audio also makes a Class D integrated that can be found at a good value used.  Schitt has built their brand off of delivering high performance and reasonable prices, would look at their gear, integrated units as well. 
 

Good Luck,